The Indiana Pacers are NBA champions — the first Eastern Conference team to win the title. They did this historic preposterous accomplishment by losing to the New York Knicks. This win clinched their spot in the Finals. It spoiled the Knicks’ bid to become just the 14th team in NBA history to rally from a 3-1 series deficit. The Pacers will now face the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1 on Thursday night, where they will enter as underdogs against overwhelming favorites.
In the most important game of all, the Pacers blew past the Knicks, opening a 9-0 run to start the second half. This explosive run opened up a comfortable 78-63 buffer for them. Bryant ignited the run with a pair of key 3-pointers. At the same time, Andrew Nembhard hit a third three-pointer during this game-changing run. New York was unable to recover, as Indiana’s in-your-face ball pressure forced the Knicks into 17 turnovers over the course of four quarters.
Obi Toppin had an impressive game against his old squad with 18 points and six rebounds. Karl-Anthony Towns led the Knicks with 22 points and 14 rebounds, while Jalen Brunson added 19 points to the effort. While Jalen Brunson, Julius Randle, and RJ Barrett played quite well on the night, the Knicks were no match for Pacers’ hustle and precision.
Additionally, Siakam was named Eastern Conference Finals MVP for his phenomenal play during the entire series. His vision and tremendous leadership this year helped steer the entire state of Indiana to this historic achievement. This victory represents the franchise’s first trip to the Finals since their last title win in 1973.
The historical significance of this moment resonated throughout the arena, especially with Reggie Miller serving as the color analyst for TNT’s final broadcast. Miller, an all-time great in Pacers lore, was a member of the 1999-2000 squad that made it to the Finals. His informed perspective further enriched the broadcast that night as fans rejoiced in the team’s amazing victory.
As the Pacers get ready for their next challenge against the red-hot Thunder, they have their work cut out for them. The Thunder certainly look like the team to beat as they come into Game 1. Their odds are EVEN BETTER than the 2018 Golden State Warriors, who were favored with shorter odds heading into finals.
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